New Delhi, Oct. 17 -- At least 18 people died after a section of Kolkata's Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal collapsed amid heavy crowds on Saptami evening.

Although there is no official confirmation of the death toll, the number was revealed to Hindustan Times by a police official.

The injured were taken to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital for treatment, while police stopped further visitors from entering the venue.

According to India Today and The Indian Express, the incident occurred as large numbers of devotees gathered at the pandal to offer prayers and view the Durga Puja arrangements.

Initial reports by Anandabazar suggested that a section of the pandal or its entrance structure had collapsed amid the crush of visitor...